Mobile load handling system

Abstract

A mobile load handling system is disclosed. The mobile load handling system includes a shuttle chassis and a load handling equipment (LHD) module. The shuttle chassis includes at least one wireless charging module configured to generate an electromagnetic field. Further, the LHD module includes at least one energy storage module and at least one wireless charging receive module coupled to the at least one energy storage module. Thereafter, the at least one wireless charging receiving module is configured to, when located within the generated electromagnetic field, induce an electrical current to charge the at least one energy storage module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to load handling systems, and more particularly to mobile load handling systems. Background Technology

[0002] Load handling systems are an integral part of material handling and logistics operations. They incorporate various mechanisms and technologies designed to facilitate the efficient movement, storage, and control of goods within manufacturing or distribution environments. Load handling systems include conveyors, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), cranes, and robotic arms, all designed to optimize workflows and enhance productivity by minimizing manual labor and reducing handling time. The design and implementation of such load handling systems generally require careful consideration of load characteristics, facility layout, and operational requirements to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

[0003] Systems used for load handling (often called shuttles) incorporate a key component called a Load Handling Device (LHD) module. The LHD module is specifically designed to facilitate load transfer between various locations or systems. For optimal performance, the LHD module must exhibit a high level of accuracy, reliability, and maintainability. Traditionally, the LHD module derives power via a steel cable integrated into a timing belt, which links to finger motors and sensors within the LHD module. However, this configuration is unreliable and shortens the lifespan of the timing belt. Furthermore, it necessitates frequent maintenance, which is economically infeasible.

[0004] The inventors have recognized many areas of improvement in the prior art and processes, which are the subject of the embodiments described herein. Many of these deficiencies, challenges, and problems have been addressed through applied effort, ingenuity, and innovation by developing solutions included in the embodiments of this disclosure, some examples of which are described in detail herein. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following presents a summary of some example embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of this disclosure. This summary is not a broad overview and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements nor to outline the scope of such elements. It should also be understood that, in addition to the embodiments summarized herein, the scope of this disclosure covers many potential embodiments, some of which will be further described in the detailed description presented later.

[0006] In one example embodiment, a mobile load handling system includes a shuttle chassis having at least one wireless charging module. The at least one charging module is configured to generate an electromagnetic field. The mobile load handling system further includes a load handling device (LHD) module movably coupled to the shuttle chassis. Further, the LHD module includes at least one energy storage module and at least one wireless charging receiver module coupled to the at least one energy storage module. Further, the at least one wireless charging receiver module is configured to induce a current when located within the generated electromagnetic field to charge the at least one energy storage module.

[0007] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module corresponds to at least one of a battery, a supercapacitor, or other current storage device. In some embodiments, the shuttle chassis further includes a shuttle control device.

[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module is coupled to at least one circuit board, and the at least one circuit board is coupled to a plurality of sensors and at least one motor. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module is configured to supply power to the plurality of sensors and the at least one motor via the at least one circuit board.

[0009] In some embodiments, the shuttle control device is configured via the at least one wireless charging module and the at least one wireless charging receiver module to wirelessly communicate with at least one circuit board to acquire one or more pieces of information or to transmit one or more pieces of information to the at least one circuit board. In some embodiments, the one or more pieces of information include at least one of the following: the charging status of the at least one energy storage module, the status of at least one motor of the at least one motor, and the status of a plurality of sensors.

[0010] In some embodiments, the shuttle control device is configured to activate charging of the at least one energy storage module when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module is below a threshold associated with charging of the at least one energy storage module. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device is configured to allow at least one circuit board to operate at least one motor and multiple sensors when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module is above a threshold associated with charging of the at least one energy storage module.

[0011] In some embodiments, the LHD module is configured to be in a retracted position or an extended position. In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging receiver module is configured to charge the at least one energy storage module when the LHD module is in the retracted position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module is configured to power the at least one circuit board to operate the LHD module when the LHD module is in the extended position. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module provides an output voltage of 24 volts and requires an input voltage that varies between 25 volts and 26 volts.

[0013] In another example embodiment, a method is disclosed. The method includes the step of moving a load handling device (LHD) module of a mobile load handling system from an extended position to a retracted position relative to a shuttle chassis of the mobile load handling system. The method further includes generating an electromagnetic field via at least one wireless charging module of the shuttle chassis. The method further includes inducing a current via at least one wireless charging receiver module of the LHD module when the LHD module is in the retracted position. Further, when the LHD module is in the retracted position, the at least one wireless charging receiver module is located within the generated electromagnetic field to charge at least one energy storage module of the LHD module.

[0014] The above description of the invention is provided merely for the purpose of summarizing some exemplary embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are merely examples and should not be construed as narrowing the scope or spirit of this disclosure in any way. It should be understood that, in addition to the embodiments summarized herein, the scope of this disclosure also covers many potential embodiments, some of which will be further described below. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Therefore, certain exemplary embodiments of this disclosure have been generally described, and reference will be made below to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: Figure 1 The figure illustrates a block diagram of a mobile load handling system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2A The figure illustrates an isometric view of a mobile load handling system at an extended location according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2B The figure illustrates an isometric view of a mobile load handling system at a retracted position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 A table is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing data corresponding to one or more specifications of at least one energy storage module; Figure 4 A flowchart of a mobile load handling system according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated; and Figure 5The illustration shows a flowchart of a method for a mobile load handling system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0016] Some embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In fact, various embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

[0017] The components illustrated in the figures represent components that may or may not be present in the various embodiments of this disclosure described herein, such that embodiments may include fewer or more components than those shown in the figures without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Some components may be omitted or shown in dashed lines from one or more figures to make underlying components visible.

[0018] As used herein, the term “comprising” means including but not limited to, and should be interpreted in the manner typically used in the patent context. The use of broader terms such as comprising, including, and having should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of, substantially consisting of, and substantially composed of.

[0019] The phrases “in various embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “according to one embodiment,” “in some embodiments,” etc., generally mean that the specific feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, and may be included in more than one embodiment of this disclosure (importantly, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment).

[0020] The term “example” or “exemplary” is used in this document to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0021] If the specification states that a component or feature "may," "can," "should," "will," "preferably," "possibly," "typically," "optionally," "for example," "often," or "may" (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, then the specific component or feature is not necessarily included or has that characteristic. Such a component or feature may be optionally included in some embodiments, or it may be excluded.

[0022] This disclosure provides various embodiments of a mobile load handling system. Embodiments may include a shuttle chassis and a load handling device (LHD) module movably coupled to the shuttle chassis. Embodiments may include at least one wireless charging module configured to generate an electromagnetic field. Embodiments may include at least one energy storage module and at least one wireless charging receiver module coupled to the at least one energy storage module. Embodiments may be configured to induce a current when the system is located within the generated electromagnetic field, thereby charging the at least one energy storage module through the at least one wireless charging receiver module.

[0023] Figure 1 A block diagram of a mobile load handling system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] The mobile load handling system 100 may include a shuttle chassis 102 and a load handling device (LHD) module 104. In some embodiments, the mobile load handling system 100 may be configured to carry loads, such as one or more packages, one or more objects, one or more crates, one or more boxes, etc., from one location to another. Further, the mobile load handling system 100 may also drag or dump loads. In some embodiments, the load handling system 100 may be installed within a facility (not shown). In some embodiments, the facility may include at least one of warehouse shelves and racks, factory packaging bases, mines, etc. In one example, the mobile load handling system 100 may be configured to be easily coupled to various external systems, such as conveyor systems, racks, shelves, etc.

[0025] In some embodiments, the shuttle chassis 102 may be configured to act as a platform facilitating coupling of the LHD module 104. In some embodiments, the shuttle chassis 102 may be configured to provide a base to enable mounting of one or more mechanical components, one or more electronic components, and one or more electrical components and the LHD module 104. In some embodiments, the shuttle chassis 102 may be coupled to the LHD module 104 via a wired connection (not shown) or a wireless connection. Further, the shuttle chassis 102 may include at least one wireless charging module 106 and a shuttle control device 108.

[0026] In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging module 106 may be coupled to the shuttle chassis 102. In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging module 106 may be electrically coupled to a power source (not shown). Further, the at least one wireless charging module 106 may be configured to generate an electromagnetic field upon receiving a predefined amount of power supply. Further, a shuttle control device 108 may be coupled to the shuttle chassis 102. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to monitor and control one or more operations of the at least one wireless charging module 106 and the LHD module 104. In one example, the one or more operations of the at least one wireless charging module 106 may include: receiving a predefined amount of power supply from the power source; and generating an electromagnetic field upon receiving the predefined amount of power supply. In another example, the one or more operations of the LHD module 104 may correspond to carrying a load from one location to another.

[0027] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 can be configured to move in one or more directions to carry a load from one location to another. In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 can be configured in an extended position 200. Figure 2A ) and in the retracted position 212 ( Figure 2B In some embodiments, LHD module 104 may be configured to move from retracted position 212 to extended position 200 to transfer load from LHD module 104 to external systems, such as conveyor systems, racks, shelves, etc. In some embodiments, LHD module 104 may be configured to move from extended position 200 to retracted position 212. In some embodiments, LHD module 104 may include at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 and at least one energy storage module 112. LHD module 104 may include at least one circuit board 114, a plurality of sensors 116, and at least one motor 118. In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be configured to induce current when positioned in proximity to or parallel to the at least one wireless charging module 106. In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be configured to induce current when located within an electromagnetic field. For example, the at least one wireless charging module 106 of shuttle chassis 102 may generate an electromagnetic field. When the LHD module 104 is in the retracted position 212, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 can be located within the electromagnetic field generated by the at least one wireless charging module 106.

[0028] In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be operatively coupled to the at least one energy storage module 112. In some embodiments, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be configured to deliver current to the at least one energy storage module 112. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may be configured to store current. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may correspond to at least one of a battery, a supercapacitor, or other current storage device. In some embodiments, the current may correspond to direct current (DC). In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may be configured to provide an output voltage of 24 volts and require an input voltage varying in the range of 25-26 volts. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may be electrically coupled to the plurality of sensors 116 and the at least one motor 118 via the at least one circuit board 114. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may be configured to supply current to the plurality of sensors 116 and the at least one motor 118.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to establish an electrical connection between the at least one energy storage module 112 and the plurality of sensors 116. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to establish an electrical connection between the at least one energy storage module 112 and the at least one motor 118. In one example, the at least one circuit board 114 may correspond to a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to enable data exchange from the plurality of sensors 116 to the shuttle control device 108. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 116 may be configured to provide one or more signals to the at least one circuit board 114. Further, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to wirelessly transmit the one or more signals to the shuttle control device 108. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to enable the exchange of the one or more signals from the shuttle control device 108 to the at least one motor 118. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to wirelessly transmit the one or more signals to the at least one circuit board 114. Further, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to provide the one or more signals to the at least one motor 118. In one example, the at least one circuit board 114 may facilitate the fabrication of one or more electronic components that can adjust the one or more signals.

[0030] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may include the plurality of sensors 116. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 116 may be coupled to the LHD module 104. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 116 may be configured to detect one or more parameters associated with the LHD module 104. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 116 may include at least one of a weight sensor, a proximity sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a speed sensor, etc. In some embodiments, the one or more parameters may include at least one of the weight of the load carried by the LHD module 104, the positioning of the LHD module 104, the speed of the LHD module 104, etc. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 116 may be configured to provide the one or more signals to the shuttle control device 108 via the at least one circuit board 114.

[0031] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may include the at least one motor 118. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may be configured to provide movement of the LHD module 104 in one or more directions. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may correspond to a direct current (DC) motor, an alternating current (AC) motor, etc. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may be driven through a first channel 206 (e.g., Figure 2A-2B (as shown in the diagram) and the second channel 208 (as shown in the diagram) Figure 2A-2B (as shown in the diagram) and coupled to the LHD module 104. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may be coupled to the shuttle control device 108 via the at least one circuit board 114. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may be configured to provide movement of the LHD module 104 based at least on one or more signals provided by the plurality of sensors 116. In some embodiments, the at least one motor 118 may facilitate movement of the LHD module 104 from one place to another based at least on one or more signals provided by the plurality of sensors 116 via the at least one circuit board 114.

[0032] In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with the at least one circuit board 114 via the at least one wireless charging module 106 and the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to obtain one or more pieces of information (i.e., one or more signals) from the at least one circuit board 114. Further, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to send the one or more pieces of information to the at least one circuit board 114. In some embodiments, the one or more pieces of information may include the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112, at least one motor state of the at least one motor 118, and at least one of the states of the plurality of sensors 116. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to activate the at least one motor 118 to provide movement from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212 in LHD mode when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is below a threshold associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112. Furthermore, when moving from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212, the at least one wireless charging module 106 and the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 can be aligned. Furthermore, the shuttle control device 108 can command the at least one wireless charging module 106 to charge the at least one energy module. For example, a signal can be sent to the at least one wireless charging module 106 to generate an electromagnetic field. When the at least one wireless charging module 106 and the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 are aligned, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 can be located within the electromagnetic field generated by the at least one wireless charging module 106, and a current can be generated within the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110, which can be transmitted to the at least one energy storage module 112 for storage.

[0033] In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to allow the at least one circuit board 114 to operate the at least one motor 118 and the plurality of sensors 116 when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is above a threshold associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112. Further, the at least one circuit board 114 may be configured to activate the at least one motor 118 to provide movement of the LHD module 104 from a retracted position 212 to an extended position 200 via a first channel 206 and a second channel 208, and vice versa, to transfer load from one location to another. In other words, as long as the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is above a threshold, the load handling system 100 can operate to move the LHD module 104 from the retracted position 212 to the extended position 200 to move one or more loads.

[0034] Figure 2A An isometric view of a mobile load handling system 100 at an extended position 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2B An isometric view of a mobile load handling system 100 at a retracted position 212 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 3 Table 300 illustrates data corresponding to one or more specifications of the at least one energy storage module 112 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2A-3 It is a combination Figure 1 And as described.

[0035] In some embodiments, the mobile load handling system 100 may include a shuttle chassis 102. Further, the shuttle chassis 102 may be configured to be located above a ground surface or on a rigid surface, such as on a shelf or rack. In some embodiments, the shuttle chassis 102 may be constructed using materials including, but not limited to, iron, aluminum, steel, etc. Further, the material of the shuttle chassis 102 may be selected to allow the shuttle chassis 102 to easily bear the weight of the LHD module 104. Further, the shuttle chassis 102 may include a plurality of brackets 202. Further, the plurality of brackets 202 may be configured to carry the weight of the LHD module 104.

[0036] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may be configured to be located at a retracted position 212 or at an extended position 200. In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may be configured to pick up a load 204 that is present within a predefined distance from the LHD module 104. Further, the LHD module 104 may be configured to move the load 204 toward the shuttle chassis 102. In some embodiments, the load 204 may include shapes including, but not limited to, cuboids, cubes, hemispheres, etc. In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may include a first channel 206, a second channel 208, and the at least one motor 118. In some embodiments, the first channel 206 of the LHD module 104 may be mounted on at least two parallel walls of the shuttle chassis 102 (e.g., Figure 2A-2B (as illustrated in the figure). In some embodiments, the first channel 206 of the LHD module 104 may be configured to remain stationary during the transfer of the load 204 to the shuttle chassis 102.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second channel 208 may be slidably attached to the first channel 206. Further, the second channel 208 may be configured to move in at least two axial directions. Further, these two axial directions may correspond to the X-axis and the Y-axis. In some embodiments, the second channel 208 may be configured to extend toward the load 204 and retract into the parallel wall of the shuttle chassis 102. Further, the second channel 208 may be coupled to the at least one motor 118. Further, the at least one motor 118 may be configured to enable the second channel 208 to extend toward the load 204 and retract toward the shuttle chassis 102. In some embodiments, the second channel 208 of the LHD module 104 may include a plurality of side holding fingers 210. In one example, the plurality of side holding fingers 210 may be mounted on each end (i.e., extreme edge) of the second channel 208. Further, each of the plurality of side holding fingers 210 may be configured to slide along the axis of the second channel 208 to firmly grip the load 204. In some embodiments, the plurality of side grip fingers 210 may be constructed using a material that can be configured to provide a firm grip to the plurality of side grip fingers 210 having a load 204.

[0038] In one example, the mobile load handling system 100 is coupled to a conveyor system configured to translate one or more packages. In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 is located at an extended position 200. Further, the at least one motor 118 may be configured to drive a second channel 208 of the LHD module 104 to move over a first channel 206. Further, movement of the second channel 208 over the first channel 206 may cause the LHD module 104 to move from the extended position 200 to a retracted position 212 to carry the one or more packages from the conveyor system to the mobile load handling system 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may be coupled to the plurality of sensors 116. Further, the plurality of sensors 116 may be configured to determine one or more parameters of the load 204. Further, the plurality of sensors 116 may be configured to transmit the one or more parameters to the shuttle control device 108 via the at least one circuit board 114. In one example, the shuttle control device 108 may be calibrated to perform required operations, such as carrying a load from an external system to the mobile load handling system 100 and carrying a load from the mobile load handling system 100 to an external system.

[0040] In some embodiments, based at least on the one or more parameters and calibrated operation, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to provide commands to the at least one motor 118 via the at least one circuit board 114. Further, the at least one motor 118 may be configured to drive the first channel 206 and the second channel 208 to slide orthogonally to move the LHD module 104 from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212. Further, the first channel 206 may be connected to the shuttle chassis 102. Further, the second channel 208 may be connected to the load 204.

[0041] In some embodiments, the LHD module 104 may include the at least one energy storage module 112. Further, the at least one energy storage module 112 may correspond to at least one of a battery, supercapacitor, or other current storage device. In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module 112 may be configured to supply power to the at least one motor 118 and the plurality of sensors 116 to perform corresponding operations. In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to acquire one or more pieces of information including the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112, the state of at least one motor of the at least one motor 118, and the state of at least one of the plurality of sensors 116.

[0042] In some embodiments, the shuttle control device 108 may be configured to activate the at least one motor 118 to provide movement from an extended position 200 to a retracted position 212 in LHD mode via a first channel 206 and a second channel 208 when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is below a threshold associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112. Further, the at least one wireless charging module 106 and the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be aligned during the movement from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212. Further, the shuttle control device 108 may command the at least one wireless charging module 106 to charge the at least one energy module. Further, the at least one wireless charging module coupled to the shuttle chassis 102 may be configured to generate an electromagnetic field. In one example, the at least one wireless charging module 106 may include a copper coil that generates an electromagnetic field upon receiving a power supply. Further, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 may be configured to induce a current to charge the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0043] like Figure 3As illustrated in Table 300, Table 300 may include one or more columns containing data associated with the at least one energy storage module 112. In some embodiments, the one or more columns may include a parameter column 302 and a specification column 304. Further, each row of the parameter column 302 may be associated with each row of the specification column 304. As illustrated in Table 300, the at least one energy storage module 112 may require an input voltage of 25.2V and provide an output voltage of 24V. Further, the at least one energy storage module 112 may have a capacity of 3000mAh, a weight of 400g, and a size of 110mm * 58mm * 42mm.

[0044] Figure 4 A flowchart 400 of a mobile load handling system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 4 It is a combination Figure 1-3 B is described.

[0045] At operation 402, the shuttle control device 108 of the moving load handling system 100 can be configured to determine the state of the LHD module 104. In one example, the LHD module 104 can also be referred to as a shuttle. Further, the state of the LHD module 104 can include at least one of "ready" or "not ready". Further, during the ready state of the LHD module 104, the at least one motor 118 of the LHD module 104 can also be configured to be in a ready state to provide movement of the LHD module 104 to carry the load from one place to another.

[0046] For example, the shuttle control device 108 of the mobile load handling system 100 is configured to determine the state of the LHD module 104 of the mobile load handling system 100. Further, the LHD module 104 is also referred to as a shuttle. The state of the LHD module 104 corresponds to a ready state and a not-ready state.

[0047] At operation 404, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to determine the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112. In one example, when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is below a threshold, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to activate the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0048] For example, LHD module 104 includes at least one energy storage module 112 (i.e., a battery). In some embodiments, shuttle control device 108 is configured to determine whether the at least one energy storage module 112 requires charging.

[0049] At operation 406, the at least one wireless charging module coupled to the shuttle chassis 102 can be configured to generate an electromagnetic field. Further, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 can be configured to induce a current to charge the at least one energy storage module 112. In one example, when the LHD module 104 is in the extended position 200, the shuttle control device 108 commands the at least one motor 118 to drive the LHD module 104 from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 200 to properly position the LHD module 104.

[0050] For example, the shuttle chassis 102 includes at least one wireless charging module 106 with a copper coil. Further, the at least one wireless charging module 106 generates an electromagnetic field when supplied with electrical power. Further, the LHD module 104 includes at least one wireless charging receiver module 110. Further, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 is configured to induce a current when located within the generated electromagnetic field to charge the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0051] At operation 408, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to be coupled to an external controller. In another example, when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is above a threshold, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to be in a state of waiting for a task from an external controller.

[0052] For example, the shuttle control device 108 is communicatively coupled to an external controller. Further, the external controller is configured to assign one or more tasks to the mobile load handling system 100. Further, the one or more tasks include: receiving loads from the transmitter system; and transferring loads to the transmitter system.

[0053] At operation 410, shuttle control device 108 can be configured to determine, after equal time intervals, whether a task has been assigned to shuttle control device 108 by an external controller. In one example, when no task has been assigned to shuttle control device 108, shuttle control device 108 determines the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 after equal time intervals.

[0054] At operation 412, in another instance, when a task is assigned by shuttle control 108, the task is issued to the at least one motor 118. Further, at least based on the task, the at least one motor 118 provides movement of the LHD module 104 to move to the retracted position 212 or to the extended position 200.

[0055] At operation 414, the at least one motor 118 and the plurality of sensors 116 can be configured to perform tasks assigned by the shuttle control device 108. Further, the plurality of sensors 116 can be configured to determine one or more parameters of the load carried by the LHD module 104. Further, the at least one motor 118 can be configured to provide movement of the LHD module 104 from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212 and from the retracted position 212 back to the extended position 200 to carry the load and perform the assigned tasks.

[0056] At operation 416, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to monitor and determine whether the assigned task has been completed. Further, in one example, when the assigned task has not been completed, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to monitor the status of the at least one motor 118 and the one or more parameters via the at least one circuit board 114. Further, in another example, when the assigned task has been completed, the shuttle control device 108 can be configured to re-determine the charging status of the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0057] Figure 5 The illustration shows a flowchart of a method 500 for a mobile load handling system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 It is a combination Figure 1-4 And as described.

[0058] At operation 502, the LHD module 104 of the mobile load handling system 100 can be configured to move from an extended position 200 to a retracted position 212 relative to the shuttle chassis 102 of the mobile load handling system 100. Further, the LHD module 104 can be configured to move from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212 and vice versa to carry the load from one location to another. Further, the shuttle plate of the shuttle chassis 102 of the mobile load handling system 100 can be configured to determine the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 of the LHD module 104. Further, the LHD module 104 of the mobile load handling system 100 can be configured to move from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212 when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is below a threshold associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0059] For example, the mobile load handling system 100 is coupled to a transmitter system. Further, the transmitter system is configured to carry the one or more packages. Further, the mobile load handling system 100 includes a shuttle chassis 102 having a shuttle control device 108 and at least one wireless charging module 106. Further, the mobile load handling system 100 further includes an LHD module 104. Further, the LHD module 104 includes at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 and the shuttle control device 108. Further, the shuttle control device 108 is configured to determine the charging state of at least one energy storage module 112 of the LHD module 104. Further, the LHD module 104 of the mobile load handling system 100 can be configured to move from an extended position 200 to a retracted position 212 when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module 112 is below a threshold (i.e., 15%) associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module 112.

[0060] At operation 504, the at least one wireless charging module 106 can be configured to generate an electromagnetic field. In one example, the at least one wireless charging module 106 may include a copper coil that generates an electromagnetic field upon receiving a power supply.

[0061] For example, the shuttle chassis 102 further includes at least one wireless charging module 106. Further, the at least one wireless charging module 106 is coupled to a power source. Further, the at least one wireless charging module 106 is configured to generate an electromagnetic field when the LHD module 104 moves from the extended position 200 to the retracted position 212.

[0062] At operation 506, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 of the LHD module 104 can be configured to induce a current when the LHD module 104 is in the retracted position 212. Further, when the LHD module 104 is in the retracted position 212, the at least one wireless charging receiver module 110 can be located within the generated electromagnetic field to charge the at least one energy storage module 112 of the LHD module 104.

[0063] For example, the LHD module 104 further includes at least one wireless charging receiver module 110. Furthermore, the at least one charging receiver module 110 is configured to induce current when the LHD module 104 is in the retracted position 212.

[0064] The mobile load handling system 100 offers various advantages. For example, the mobile load handling system 100 uses a first channel 206 and a second channel 208 to drive the LHD module 104, thereby avoiding the requirement of driving the LHD module 104 using conventional methods (i.e., steel cables in a timing belt). Embodiments of the invention include an energy storage module 112 on the LHD module 104, which simplifies the operation of the mobile load handling system 100. Embodiments of the invention ensure wireless charging of the at least one energy storage module 112 by supplying power to the energy storage module 112 via at least a wireless charging module 106 and the at least one wireless charging receiver module 112. Embodiments of the invention avoid using motion cables to power and communicate with the at least one circuit board 104 of the shuttle chassis 102 and the LHD module 104, thereby improving the reliability and maintainability of the mobile load handling system 100.

[0065] Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, having the advantages of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings, will conceive of numerous modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, although the foregoing description and associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this respect, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions from those explicitly described above may also be conceived, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A mobile load handling system, comprising: a shuttle chassis comprising at least one wireless charging module, wherein the at least one wireless charging module is configured to generate an electromagnetic field; and a load handling device (LHD) module movably coupled to the shuttle chassis, wherein the LHD module comprises: at least one energy storage module; and at least one wireless charging receiving module coupled to the at least one energy storage module, wherein the at least one wireless charging receiving module is configured to induce a current to charge the at least one energy storage module when located within the generated electromagnetic field.

2. The mobile load handling system of claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module corresponds to at least one of a battery, a super capacitor, or a current storage device.

3. The mobile load handling system of claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module is coupled with at least one circuit board, and the at least one circuit board is coupled with a plurality of sensors and at least one motor.

4. The mobile load handling system of claim 3, wherein the at least one energy storage module is configured to power the plurality of sensors and the at least one motor via the at least one circuit board.

5. The mobile load handling system of claim 1, wherein the shuttle chassis further comprises a shuttle control device.

6. The mobile load handling system of claim 5, wherein the shuttle control device is configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one circuit board for retrieving or sending one or more information to the at least one circuit board via the at least one wireless charging module and the at least one wireless charging receiving module.

7. The mobile load handling system of claim 6, wherein the one or more information comprises at least one of a state of charge of the at least one energy storage module, at least one motor state of at least one motor, and a state of a plurality of sensors.

8. The mobile load handling system of claim 7, wherein the shuttle control device is configured to activate charging of the at least one energy storage module when the state of charge of the at least one energy storage module is below a threshold value associated with charging of the at least one energy storage module.

9. The mobile load handling system of claim 7, wherein the shuttle control device is configured to allow the at least one circuit board to operate the at least one motor and the plurality of sensors when the state of charge of the at least one energy storage module is above a threshold value associated with charging of the at least one energy storage module.

10. The mobile load handling system of claim 1, wherein the LHD module is configured to be in a retracted position or in an extended position.

11. The mobile load handling system of claim 10, wherein the at least one wireless charging receiving module is configured to charge the at least one energy storage module when the LHD module is in the retracted position. ​ ​ 12. The mobile load handling system of claim 10, wherein the at least one energy storage module is configured to: supply power to at least one circuit board to operate the LHD module when the LHD module is in the extended position.

13. The mobile load handling system of claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module provides an output voltage of 24 volts and requires an input voltage that varies in the range of 25-26 volts.

14. A method comprising: The load handling device (LHD) module of the mobile load handling system is moved from an extended position to a retracted position relative to the shuttle chassis of the mobile load handling system; An electromagnetic field is generated via at least one wireless charging module of the shuttle chassis; as well as When the LHD module is in the retracted position, a current is generated via at least one wireless charging receiver module of the LHD module, wherein when the LHD module is in the retracted position, the at least one wireless charging receiver module is located within the generated electromagnetic field to charge at least one energy storage module of the LHD module.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the at least one energy storage module corresponds to at least one of a battery, a supercapacitor, or other current storage device.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising: The at least one energy storage module is coupled to at least one circuit board, and the at least one circuit board is further coupled to a plurality of sensors and at least one motor.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The plurality of sensors and the at least one motor are powered via the at least one energy storage module and via the at least one circuit board.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the shuttle chassis further includes a shuttle control device, wherein the shuttle control device is configured via the at least one wireless charging module and the at least one wireless charging receiver module to: wirelessly communicate with at least one circuit board to acquire one or more pieces of information or to send one or more pieces of information to the at least one circuit board.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the one or more pieces of information include at least one of the following: the charging state of the at least one energy storage module, the at least one motor state of the at least one motor, and the states of the plurality of sensors, wherein the shuttle control device is configured to: activate charging of the at least one energy storage module when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module is below a threshold; and the shuttle control device is configured to: allow the at least one circuit board to operate the at least one motor and the plurality of sensors when the charging state of the at least one energy storage module is above a threshold associated with the charging of the at least one energy storage module.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein when the LHD module is in the retracted position, the at least one wireless charging receiver module is configured to charge the at least one energy storage module, wherein when the LHD module is in the extended position, the at least one energy storage module is configured to power at least one circuit board to operate the LHD module.

Images